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As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, summer gatherings and picnics invite us to indulge in delightful dishes that capture the essence of the season. One such dish that has gained immense popularity is the pasta salad. Among the myriad of pasta salad recipes, the Ranch Wonderland Pasta Salad stands out as a vibrant and flavorful option that brings together fresh ingredients and a creamy dressing, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

Easy Ranch Pasta Salad

Discover the ultimate summer dish with Ranch Wonderland Pasta Salad, a colorful and refreshing addition to any gathering. This easy-to-make salad combines rotini pasta, fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, and a zesty ranch dressing for a delightful flavor. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or meal prep, it's nutritious and customizable to suit various diets. Get ready to impress family and friends with this vibrant and satisfying salad that embodies the essence of summer.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)

3/4 cup ranch dressing

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, fill with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then carefully add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, preventing it from sticking together.

    Prep the Veggies: While the pasta is cooling, take a cutting board and chop the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

      Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing, olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your palate.

        Combine Ingredients: In the large mixing bowl containing the vegetables, add the cooled rotini pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon if you choose to include it. Gently fold the mixture together to evenly distribute all the ingredients.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the ranch dressing mixture over the pasta and vegetable medley. Use a spatula or spoon to toss everything together, ensuring each piece is well coated with the creamy dressing.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, stir the salad again for consistency and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl or individual bowls. Consider adding a few extra cherry tomato halves and a sprinkle of parsley on top for a beautiful finish.